New Aberdeen restaurant and bar to create 50 jobs

A new restaurant and bar is set to open in Aberdeen thanks to a six-figure funding package from Royal Bank of Scotland, creating up to 50 jobs.

The Union Street establishment, currently undergoing refurbishment, will feature a steak restaurant and two bars, one of which is admission by invitation only.

The underground bar, called 21 Crimes, takes its cue from the 1800s and the misdeeds that would result in deportation to Australia. Each month, a different crime will be picked to act as the theme for the bar, with guests invited to interact on the bar’s social media page to receive an invitation.

In addition to 21 Crimes, Vovem will also be home to a steak restaurant, with meat sourced from the UK’s highest quality producers. Guests will also have an extensive cocktail menu to choose from in the venue’s upstairs bar.

Owners PB Development Company, also known as PB Devco, own a number of night spots in Aberdeen, including College Bar on Alford Place.

Stuart Clarkson, Director of PB Devco, said: “Things are starting to look up for Aberdeen and there’s a real need for high quality establishments that offer a little bit of exclusivity. This is why we’ve created the unique 21 Crimes experience, to get people excited about Aberdeen’s night life and all the city has to offer.

“Our steak restaurant will be a little bit different too, with meat cooked on specially designed wood burning grills to enhance flavour.”

Martin Ramsay, relationship manager at Royal Bank of Scotland, said: “Stuart’s investment in Aberdeen is a positive sign, and shows confidence is returning to the local market.

“Stuart has over 30 years’ experience in the hospitality trade, and knows how to create go-to venues in Aberdeen. We are sure that Stuart and his team will have another success on their hands with Vovem.”

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